Iran Urges Continued Dialogue Between Taliban and Pakistan
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has stated that Abbas Araqchi, the country’s foreign minister, expressed his concerns regarding the current situation between the Taliban and Pakistan during a phone conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.
According to the ministry’s statement, Araqchi emphasized that ongoing dialogue between the Taliban and Pakistan, with the cooperation of influential regional actors, could reduce differences and prevent escalating tensions. He also mentioned that Iran is ready to provide “any necessary support” in this regard.
During the call, Qureshi also highlighted the importance of maintaining regional peace and stability while referring to recent developments in the relationship between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan, asserting that Islamabad continues to emphasize diplomatic solutions.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry added that both countries agreed to continue consultations to manage tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan.
These remarks come as direct talks between the Taliban and Pakistani officials, held informally in Istanbul, Turkey, ended without reaching any agreement. This was the third round of negotiations between the two sides, which, like previous instances, have remained unsuccessful.
During the talks, both the Taliban and Pakistan accused each other of “irresponsible” behavior. The Pakistani defense minister had previously warned that if these discussions yield no results, the security situation between the two could deteriorate.
In recent months, the Taliban’s lack of formal and accountable governance, particularly in dealings with neighbors including Pakistan, has increased tensions and concerns in the region, and the failure of recent negotiations has exacerbated these worries.
